1906 Autocar Type 10 Runabout

The Autocar Company of Pennsylvania was established in 1897 and produced robust small cars powered by opposed two-cylinder engines. They preferred the shaft drive instead of chain drive. In 1902, they adopted the System Panhard with the introduction of the Type 6. In 1905, the production line exampled with a four-cylinder model and later, a line of heavy-duty trucks. The light two-cylinder Autocars was last cataloged in 1908 and by 1913, the company turned its full attention to trucks, establishing a reputation for rugged, durable haulers that excelled in urban industrial and delivery applications.

The Type 10 was introduced in 1904 and was the company's most successful Autocar, continuing in production through 1906. In total, over 1000 examples were built. The only body style available was the lightweight Runabout.

This example was purchased from the famed collection of Maine-based Richard C. Paine Jr., who had acquired it from another prominent collection, that of Dr. Samuel Scher of Mamaroneck, New York in 1967. Prior to Paine's acquisition, Dr. Scher had Gus Reuter restore the Autocar to showroom condition, resulting in Junior and Senior National First Prize awards in the Antique Automobile Club of America competition as well as a Thompson Trophy.

The car is equipped with right-hand wheel steering, Gray & Davis acetylene headlights, Neverout kerosene sidelights, a Gray & Davis kerosene taillight, and a trumpet bulb horn. The opposed two-cylinder engine has atmospheric intake valves. The cooling radiator is located in front of the front axle with its three-quarter elliptical leaf springs, below the coal scuttle engine hood. The rear axle is suspended with semi-elliptical leaf springs and located by long trailing arms. The engine is a symphony of red-painted iron and polished brass.

By Daniel Vaughan | Nov 2013